This is on a scale that puts Napa Junction, now known as American Canyon, aka Lombard, at #11. Have you ever been to Lombard? Such tomfoolery on this day of all days suggests that ODDs, a Saloom for Fools will be opening in Danville soon.

Posted by Bert Martin
a resident of Danville
on Apr 1, 2008 at 10:39 am

Dear neighbors,

Sadly, Danville should be ranked for small business failures. In my experience as an investor, I have had to close or move businesses in Danville due to the lack of downtown draw. Danville's downtown lacks anchor stores that create volume traffic for new retail and commercial companies.

Danville's economic development efforts need to address anchor stores and attractions including a much-needed hotel.

I am amazed that any magazine would publish such a result unless some PR person promoted inclusion. As Bert noted, there are no anchors for downtown business and the local chamber has not been inviting to creating such anchor retail and attractions, especially a hotel/meeting facilities.

Our downtown does not warrant new investment in small retail and commercial operations until such time as a master plan for overall economic development of anchor retail and attractions can be positioned in our primary corridors.

Posted by Hal Bailey
a resident of another community
on Apr 2, 2008 at 9:09 am

Dear Danville neighbors,

Fortune small business magazine, www.fsb.com, is a publication of Fortune, CNN and Money.

Commentary by FSB: Population: 45,093
Pro: Easy access to San Francisco
Con: High home prices

Gold Rush money helped create Danville back in the mid-1850s; for some entrepreneurs opportunity lives on today in California's East Bay, a region that offers a variety of economic incentive programs. Danville, a quaint, historic town, is home to many small companies with five or fewer employees. Neighboring San Ramon hosts several large corporate offices, such as those for AT&T and Chevron. Local businesses serve a wealthy and well-educated population: 59% hold at least a bachelor's degree in Danville; 54% in San Ramon.

As is the case with many towns and cities in the region, real estate doesn't come cheap: houses in Danville sold at a whopping median price of $907,000 in 2006 ($710,000 in San Ramon). But Danville entrepreneurs seem to be putting their homes to good use - a survey run by the town council found that many businesses are run out of the home. With its many parks, wineries, museums, and quaint downtown, residents might prefer to stick around town during their off hours. But those seeking more can make an easy getaway: Two international airports lie within a 30-mile radius, and San Francisco is a mere 33 miles away on the BART, the Bay area's commuter train.

(-30-)

Review of article will illustrate inaccuracies in the commentary and lack of primary reasons for a positive business climate.

Posted by Dana in Danville
a resident of Danville
on Apr 2, 2008 at 12:15 pm

Posted with permission of the author

Gentlemen,

Danville downtown is an excellent place for retail, commercial and professional businesses. Our business people work together to create a personal welcome to all. Our Town and its business people are working hard to increase the uniqueness of our retail and hospitality for visitors. We have seen a large increase in tourists coming to downtown to enjoy the small town feel and fun of shopping and dining.

We are not done yet!

We accept the challenge of more anchors like Trader Joe's. We share support for a small, inviting hotel. Most of all, we thank you for your interests and challenges because it will make Danville's business community better able to serve you.

Posted by Ralph in Danville
a resident of another community
on Apr 7, 2008 at 7:43 am

Dear OX and neighbors,

Danville is a hodge podge of commercial development and business operations. Remnants of long ago clutter the downtown and do not offer rational staging for commercial and retail operations. Poor parking configurations limit the invitation to visit downtown Danville. Creekside, as an important downtown attraction is undeveloped and not accessable. The lack of anchors including a hotel is primary cause for a limited business climate.

I am frankly surprised that FORTUNE Small Business would have considered Danville in the top 100 or even 1000.

Posted by Oxymo Ron
a resident of another community
on Apr 9, 2008 at 3:48 pm

Dear Ms. Onymous

If Alamo actually existed as a community and not as an oxymoron, we might be shades of green. But, alas, it will be your definition that makes that jealousy or our stomach condition.

Admittedly, as most of our neighbors enjoy the exceptional hospitality and shopping of Walnut Creek, few among Alamo neighbors spend time considering Danville. With that being said, Danville old town has its own charm and exceptional potential for creekside walkways and hospitality and much more.

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